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Lab Helper Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Johns Hopkins Healthcare

Lab Tech I

Columbia, MD · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Work Experience: • No experience required (some experience, preferably lab experience is helpful). Computer and data entry, retrieval and/or review skills are required. • For Phlebotomy upon hire ...

Johns Hopkins Health System

Lab Tech I

Columbia, MD · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Work Experience: • No experience required (some experience, preferably lab experience is helpful). Computer and data entry, retrieval and/or review skills are required. • For Phlebotomy upon hire ...

US Fertility

Embryology Weekend Lab Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

... lives we help bring into the world , and the culture of excellence we foster across our ... Opportunity Overview We have an immediate opening for an Embryology Weekend Lab Assistant to join ...

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$32

How much do lab helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab helper in Washington is $21.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lab Helper vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab HelperLab Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory support, assisting with basic tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, operating lab equipment
Employer & Industry UsageResearch labs, educational institutions, healthcare facilitiesMedical labs, research institutions, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles and support tasksCompared for technical responsibilities and qualifications

The main difference between a Lab Helper and a Lab Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Lab Helpers typically assist with basic tasks and require minimal formal education, while Lab Technicians perform more complex testing and usually hold relevant certifications or degrees. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings, but Lab Technicians have a higher level of technical responsibility.

What does a lab helper do?

A lab helper assists scientists and technicians by preparing materials, setting up equipment, cleaning work areas, and supporting experiments. They often handle tasks such as labeling samples, maintaining lab supplies, and following safety protocols to ensure smooth laboratory operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Helper, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, with basic laboratory knowledge and attention to detail. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the laboratory runs efficiently, maintains safety standards, and supports scientific staff effectively.

What are lab helpers?

Lab helpers are support staff who assist scientists, researchers, or lab technicians in maintaining the daily operations of a laboratory. Their duties typically include preparing materials, cleaning equipment, organizing supplies, and sometimes helping with experiments under supervision. Lab helpers play a crucial role in ensuring the lab runs smoothly and safely by keeping the workspace organized and adhering to safety protocols. While they generally do not design experiments, their work is essential for efficient and accurate scientific research.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Lab helpers or assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require post-secondary education or coursework in science. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important. Certifications in safety or specific techniques can be advantageous but are not always required.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on whether the role is part-time or full-time and the industry sector.

What is the highest salary for a lab assistant?

The highest salary for a lab helper or lab assistant can vary depending on experience, location, and industry, but it typically ranges up to $50,000 to $60,000 annually for those with advanced skills or working in specialized laboratories. Senior or supervisory roles may offer higher compensation, especially in research or clinical settings.

What does a typical day look like for a Lab Helper and how do they support the overall workflow of the laboratory?

A typical day for a Lab Helper involves preparing and organizing lab equipment, cleaning glassware, restocking supplies, and assisting with basic experimental setups. Lab Helpers play a crucial role in maintaining a clean, efficient lab environment, allowing scientists and technicians to focus on more complex tasks. They frequently collaborate with laboratory staff to ensure that all materials are available and that safety protocols are followed. This support helps the team meet deadlines and maintain high standards of accuracy and safety in their work.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Lab Helper jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Lab Helper job openings:
Lab Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Helper job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,377 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Lab Tech I

Lab Tech I

Johns Hopkins Healthcare

Columbia, MD • On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Johns Hopkins Medicine rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 202 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

226th of 875 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The Johns Hopkins Hospital is a world-renowned leader in patient care, serving the greater Baltimore community and patients from all across the globe. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff teams provide support throughout our many specialty departments and centers, from primary visits to emergency care.
What Awaits You?
• Career growth and development
• Tuition Assistance
• Diverse and collaborative working environment
• Affordable and comprehensive benefits package
Location: JH at Howard County Hospital- General Labs, Howard County, MD
Part Time/Night Shift: Saturdays and Sundays - 7pm-7:30am or 11pm-7:30am
11p-7:30am Weekdays
Weekends and Hoildays required
***Will Consider Lab Tech I, II or Lab Tech Certified Phlebotomist***
Position Summary:
• Performs laboratory tests (which may include but not limited to: Phlebotomy, Occult and Gastric Blood Tests, Urine pH and volume).
• Responsible for processing samples (which may include: accessioning, receiving, aliquoting, and labeling samples as well as participating in review of laboratory actions).
• May operate and maintain automated pre-analytic instrumentation.
• Responsible for recording and reporting results accurately.
• Responsible for accurate entry of patient data (which may include demographics, insurance/payment information, contact detail) and review, verification and entry of requisitions.
• Maintains established levels of supplies and inventory, and ensures clean and organized workspace (including carts).
• Responsible for initiating or verifying that proper actions are taken to resolve problems, including participating and recording laboratory items in communication log or hand-off communication activity., ensuring information is relayed across shifts.
• Participates in Quality Assurance initiatives.
• Provides feedback to leadership regarding processes and participates in Process Improvement initiatives.
• Role generally includes performing Phlebotomy and Arterial Blood Gas or other specimen collections. Maintains high level of competency for all skills and knowledge required.
• Participates in training new employees and in auditing laboratory work flows and performance.
• Exceptional customer service; communicating with patients, medical providers, and laboratory and hospital staff in clear, concise, and compassionate manner.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
• High school diploma or equivalent including high school level coursework in biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
Work Experience:
• No experience required (some experience, preferably lab experience is helpful). Computer and data entry, retrieval and/or review skills are required.
• For Phlebotomy upon hire, successful completion of training will require at least 100 blood draws and competency testing on relevant procedures which may include testing on a mannequin arm.
Required Licensure, Certification, On-going Training:
• No certification required
***Authorization to Work in the United States: Applicants who require sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered for this position.
Salary Range: Minimum 18.09/hour - Maximum 29.87/hour. Compensation will be commensurate with equity and experience for roles of similar scope and responsibility. In cases where the range is displayed as a $0 amount, salary discussions will occur during candidate screening calls, before any subsequent compensation discussion is held between the candidate and any hiring authority.
The Hospital reserves the right to modify employee schedules as needed.
We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, where we embrace and celebrate our differences, where all employees feel valued, contribute to our mission of serving the community, and engage in equitable healthcare delivery and workforce practices.
Johns Hopkins Health System and its affiliates are drug-free workplace employers.
Johns Hopkins Health System and its affiliates are an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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